Glossary of Online Learning Terms
- computer-based training (CBT)
- Individualized instruction delivered to trainees via computer application.
- distance learning
- A term encompassing all learning that takes place at locations remote
from the point of instruction. Distance learning may take the form of
an instructor-led course delivered via satellite to multiple remote
locations. Distance learning may also be training applications delivered
via computer networks to students at any network node. Web-based training
is one distance learning method in that the training application resides
on a Web server while students may use the training from any location
that can access the server.
- electronic performance support system (EPSS)
- Applications designed to run simultaneously with other applications
or embedded within other applications that provide support for the user
in accomplishing specific tasks. An EPSS may provide needed information,
present job aids, and deliver just-in-time, context-sensitive training
on demand. A Web-based performance support system (WBPSS) is an EPSS
that uses Web technology to deliver support in an enterprise environment.
- Instructional Systems Design (ISD)
- A formal process for designing training, be it computer-based or traditional
instructor-led training. The ISD process, as applied to CBT and WBT,
suggests a comprehensive needs analysis, user analysis, design document
(including flowcharts, storyboards, and evaluation procedures), application
prototype, finished computer application, usability testing, and effectiveness
evaluation.
- multimedia
- Multimedia describes any application that uses multiple media (graphics,
text, animations, audio, video). However, multimedia is primarily thought
of as any application that uses high-bandwidth media (audio and video)
and is most often delivered on CD-ROM. Multimedia does not describe
the purpose of the application, such as game, presentation, or CBT.
Nor does multimedia describe the delivery media, such as CD-ROM, only
the nature of media used in the application. CBT and WBT may also be
considered multimedia applications if they incorporate multiple media
to meet instructional objectives.
- universal playback
- WBT that plays unaltered on any common computer system. Universal
playback is a reality since Web browsers, the playback engines, exist
for DOS/Windows, Apple Macintosh, and UNIX operating systems. Although
HTML, JAVA, and VRML, the languages of Web browsers, are undergoing
rapid changes, these languages are not platform-specific.
- user-centered design
- Application design that considers the needs of the end user as paramount.
In CBT/WBT design, user-centered means designing for maximum instructional
effectiveness and usability while allowing the end user control over
the learning process.
- Web browser
- A software application that displays hypermedia-rich documents delivered
from network server(s). Many different browsers are available for text-based
and graphics-based operating systems and hardware.
- Web-based performance support system (WBPSS)
- A Web-based system that provides on-demand access to information,
job aids, and context-sensitive training. A WBPSS supports users in
accomplishing specific tasks. WBPSS is an extension of EPSS intended
to deliver support in an enterprise environment.
- Web-based training (WBT)
- Individualized instruction delivered over public or private computer
networks and displayed by a Web browser. WBT is not downloaded CBT,
but rather on-demand training stored in a server and accessed across
a network. Web-based training can be updated very rapidly, and access
to the training controlled by the training provider.
|
